tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82969123742078937252024-03-12T19:20:45.680-07:00Panna Days, Guinness NightsBrian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.comBlogger44125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-19982048922450881062012-10-17T08:54:00.000-07:002012-10-17T08:54:15.785-07:00$1 Subs at Jimmy Johns?
<br />
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<a href="http://jimmyjohns-chattanooga.com/jimmy-logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://jimmyjohns-chattanooga.com/jimmy-logo.jpg" width="317" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I heard it on the radio and almost could not believe my
ears. Even though this is not being advertised on the radio, </span><a href="http://www.jimmyjohns.com/homepage.aspx"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Jimmy John’s Gourmet Subs</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> is
offering subs for $1 on Thursday 10/18/2012 from 11am – 3pm. The news has been
confirmed by phone calls to local restaurants and by checking in with local
news organizations. It is a mystery why there is not more hype about this out
there, but I for one will be there to get my sub tomorrow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The deal includes sandwiches </span><a href="http://www.jimmyjohns.com/menu/menu.aspx"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">#1 - #6</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">. While this means I
cannot get my usual Gargantuan, I will still be able to enjoy the #5, which is
a scaled down version of that mighty meaty sub. The subs are in celebration of
how well the company is doing and to say thanks to everyone that loves their
subs so much. So, if you have enjoyed receiving your sub before you can even
fill your soda, now is the time to order your $1 sub and have an outstanding sub.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The one caveat to the deal is that you will only be able to
get one per person. This means you will not be able to be the company hero by
getting delicious subs for everyone in your office for pocket change. However,
you could rally the troops for a mass invasion of your local Jimmy John’s and
everyone will thank you for bringing it to their attention. After all, who
would not want one of these delicious sandwiches for just $1?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-12469220668509752312012-08-23T17:45:00.000-07:002012-08-23T17:45:00.548-07:00Rates Remain Low at Candler Park Golf Course<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ESpMrJsYAnc/UDbNzKsnNEI/AAAAAAAACMM/2S_VPeexMl4/s1600/candler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ESpMrJsYAnc/UDbNzKsnNEI/AAAAAAAACMM/2S_VPeexMl4/s1600/candler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ESpMrJsYAnc/UDbNzKsnNEI/AAAAAAAACMM/2S_VPeexMl4/s1600/candler.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There has been a lot of talk about </span><a href="http://www.americangolf.com/candler-park-golf-course/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Candler Park Golf
Course</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">. After the </span><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/focpgc/home"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Friends
of the Candler Park Golf Course (FCPG)</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> got together, it appears that the
city is not going forward with any plans to shut down the golf course. One of
the points of discussion which led to the idea of closing the course in the
first place was the fact that the course is losing tens of thousands of dollars
every year. One method to recover these losses has been a suggested increase in
the green fees for using the course.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If there is an intention to increase the Candler Park Golf
Course green fees, it has yet to take effect. In fact, a recent call to the
course uncovered that the course appears to have lowered their prices slightly.
The current prices are as follows for Atlanta city residents:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Weekday rates - $9.72<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> -</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Weekend rates - $11.88<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The greens are in much better condition this year and it
appears that the greens will look even better next year with a revitalized
effort by the community to beautify the course and make even more use of the
green space.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The </span><a href="http://guinessnights.blogspot.com/2011/11/save-candler-park-golf-course.html"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Candler
Park Golf Course</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> is located at:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>585 Candler Park
Drive, NE<br />
Atlanta, GA 30307<br />
404-371-1260<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<a href="http://guinessnights.blogspot.com/2011/08/having-fun-playing-golf-at-candler-park.html"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">Candler
Park Golf Course</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> is located close to Little Five Points community and is in
close proximity to Downtown Atlanta, Midtown, Buckhead, Decatur and North Druid
Hills. The 9-hole course features dramatic changes in elevation that can
present a challenge on holes where you cannot even see the green at the top of
the hill. The community is welcoming to golfers of all skill sets. So, come out
and enjoy the low rates on the green fees before they rise. You are sure to
enjoy yourself and will certainly be back soon with friends. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-8762910405979575992012-07-30T13:46:00.000-07:002012-07-30T14:11:07.054-07:00Louis Vuitton Waffles Anyone?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7U5cc2FW8ZY/UBbyPcpEBoI/AAAAAAAACLs/k-I30PwNuRQ/s1600/LV-Waffle-Maker-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7U5cc2FW8ZY/UBbyPcpEBoI/AAAAAAAACLs/k-I30PwNuRQ/s320/LV-Waffle-Maker-2.jpg" width="210" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">There are many in the fashion world that would purchase
anything for fashion. But, would you cook for fashion? This is a fair question
with the Louis Vuitton waffle maker recently introduced to the world.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The design of the waffle maker was dreamt up by Andrew
Lewicki. This Los Angeles based designer decided to create a waffle maker that
imprints the ‘LV’ monogram on every waffle. It features Teflon coating and a
hinge closing function that clasps in the front.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r5c7HMEi0gU/UBbyQ5oeWVI/AAAAAAAACL0/WVP2oxUZmBs/s1600/LV-Waffle-Maker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r5c7HMEi0gU/UBbyQ5oeWVI/AAAAAAAACL0/WVP2oxUZmBs/s320/LV-Waffle-Maker.jpg" width="210" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The simplistic design might have you wondering where you can
get your own. Unfortunately, this is not something you can buy just yet. It was
created for an art-installation and is not available for mass production,
though many are speculating just how long it will be until it is ready to be
sold to the public. The model uses generic waffle maker parts, an aluminum
sheet with enamel as the outer shell and Teflon coated aluminum for the
interior. Its dimensions are 13” x 14” x 16”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">You might know <a href="http://www.andrewlewicki.com/projects"><span style="color: blue;">Andrew Lewicki</span></a> from other great
designs as the all wood Less Paul guitar or the Oreo Manhole cover. This Louis
Vuitton may only be for display, but it is a great design that many have
already indicated that they would pay top dollar for. Only time will tell if
the design offered by the OTIS graduate will be made available to the public.
If so, it is likely not to be available through Target.</span>Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0214 Capitol Pl SW, Atlanta, GA 30334, USA33.7489954 -84.387982432.0599479 -86.9148379 35.4380429 -81.8611269tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-7445741347461680882012-02-02T06:03:00.000-08:002012-02-02T06:03:24.414-08:00Gourmet Ramen Noodles, Is It Possible?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5182cZS5jys/TyqXeESR1yI/AAAAAAAABRg/e7jLrNV990w/s1600/2-2-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5182cZS5jys/TyqXeESR1yI/AAAAAAAABRg/e7jLrNV990w/s320/2-2-12.jpg" width="255" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As a former chef and future restaurateur, I am about the
last person that most people would expect to be into some Ramen Noodles, but I
just about always keep some handy in the house. These not only bring back
memories from college when I needed to conserve my money. They also allow me to
develop new and interesting creations from such a simple base.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The majority of people simply boil the noodles and add the
packet of seasoning and call it a day. While this is a great way to get a salty
snack or an accompaniment to a meal, it leaves something to be desired in the
form of a culinary delight. Okay, I am not advocating this as something that
you might find on the menu for a four star restaurant, it is still something
that you can enjoy on a night when you do not want to use seven pots and pans
to make a quick dinner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The best way that I have found to enjoy these in a quick
manner is to make some Thai Style spicy peanut butter ramen noodles. The
ingredients are simple. You will only need to have:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Chicken Ramen Noodles (1 package)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Creamy or Chunky peanut butter (1TBS)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Trader Joes Chili Pepper Sauce (1 tsp)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You can add other things like cabbage, boiled eggs, roasted
peanuts, chicken or anything else you might want to have. I will sometimes add
some slices of garlic just to make it REALLY offensive! The process is simple:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Just boil the noodles with about one cup of
water in a small pot just big enough for the noodles to fit in. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Flip the noodles as soon as the water starts to boil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">3.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">While the noodles are finishing, add into a bowl
peanut butter and chili sauce.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">4.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">When noodles are tender, add in noodles and
broth to bowl.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">5.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stir the broth carefully to fully incorporate
the peanut butter and chili sauce.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">6.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Add green onions, garlic or whatever else you
might want or just eat them like this.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My wife used to laugh at me for making this until I got her
to try just the broth. She is a staunch opponent to ramen noodles and she asked
me to make her a bowl. If you don’t like it, I understand. All I am saying is
that there are so many ways that you can something ordinary and make it worth
your time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-58378531162912753542012-02-01T07:17:00.000-08:002012-02-01T07:17:02.343-08:00Coffee and Tea for Me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ErsACS6wYDk/TylXJ_1sdRI/AAAAAAAABRY/7mpOoXmco2I/s1600/2-1-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="171" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ErsACS6wYDk/TylXJ_1sdRI/AAAAAAAABRY/7mpOoXmco2I/s320/2-1-12.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Caffeine has long been an important part of my life. Ever
since I discovered the great benefits that a big cup of coffee could provide
me, I was all in. My addiction started in high school with the late night trips
to Waffle House. This was a great way to have a place in which my friends and I
could hang out for hours without ever getting hassled. We could drink buckets
of coffee and make plans for how we would take over the world. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">College was also fueled by coffee. It was able to bring the
kind of late nights that I wished I had experienced in high school. Spending
all night at the raves and doing whatever I wanted was a welcome relief from
military school blues. I discovered Jittery Joes in Athens and started
experimenting with “classy” coffees like cappuccino and latte. Through it all,
I still came back to the standard coffee for which I have come to know and
love. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After college, I started working in restaurants full time
and learning the finer things about coffee. I learned about the kinds of beans
that I liked best and the conditions which would allow me to get the kind of
flavor that I liked best. I learned that I like hilltop, Arabica beans much
better than Oceanside Robusta beans. I also learned that I am not a can of the
common Italian roasts. I prefer a dark roast with nutty characters instead. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Teas started out as something which I liked more for herbal
tastes than I did for black teas. I only ever enjoyed black tea when I was at
the Chinese restaurant and I was drinking it with a meal. As I matured and
discovered haunts like Teavana, I discovered the world of white teas and all of
the other varieties. While I am far from a tea connoisseur, I am a bit more
educated than the average tea bag drinker. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Through it all, I still prefer to have a great cup of
coffee. I have a wonderful Krups coffee maker with a filter built in to make a
perfect pot of coffee. I have not bought into the pod technology as it is just
too much for me. I cannot fathom paying so much for coffee. I am spending
enough to get the best coffee beans and a wonderful machine to make it with. I
will keep it simple right now and keep feeding my addiction to caffeine in the
way I like best.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-12720306377346676142012-01-31T16:28:00.000-08:002012-01-31T16:29:13.040-08:00Hectic Day in the Big A<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-unLWH3qB9NA/TyiG5BG9iGI/AAAAAAAABRI/Z_mfcvQLA9Q/s1600/atlantaskyline2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="98" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-unLWH3qB9NA/TyiG5BG9iGI/AAAAAAAABRI/Z_mfcvQLA9Q/s400/atlantaskyline2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">There are many days in which you would like to just be able
to get back into bed and pretend that it never happened. Today was a day that I
would have rather have just extended out between four other days. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Getting by on three hours of sleep is something which should
have been left behind from my days in college. It is amazing the ability that
you have to get up whenever there are deadlines to be met and money to be made.
I broke off from work last night to sleep at midnight and woke up at 3am to
finish everything. I would have slept later, but we had to get out the door
this morning at 7:30am.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, anyone have some extra time that they would like to sell
me? How great would it be if the world worked that way? You want to get some
extra time in your day, you buy it from someone not using it like those in
prison. They get what they want with a shorter sentence. You get what you want
with more time on your hands to enjoy with your family or to make more money.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I am happy to have this problem as my problem is one of too
much work and not enough time. I would rather have this problem than needing to
have two nickels to rub together and no way to make any money for my family.
The kids are in school, one of them being college, and we are able to pay our
bills.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I would be remiss to say that life is good seeing as I am
not able to enjoy the time that I should have with my family, but at least I am
able to make sure that they are able to have the things that they want. I know
that things will slow back down soon, so I am just riding it out until then.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">During these hectic days in the A, I will simply overload on
caffeine and have too much to drink whenever I get the chance. Until then, I
will fight the stress by talking through platforms like this. Thank you to all
of you out there reading this and I appreciate any well wishes you have to
offer. <o:p></o:p></span></div>Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-56017252772992547642012-01-30T16:09:00.000-08:002012-01-30T16:09:14.317-08:00Valentine’s Day Trap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2A1qSpQN_s4/TycxFptDl9I/AAAAAAAABRA/ebzVCwxL1nw/s1600/heart+trap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2A1qSpQN_s4/TycxFptDl9I/AAAAAAAABRA/ebzVCwxL1nw/s320/heart+trap.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, I was getting my taxes done the other day and I was
having a discussion with my wife and the woman who was entering the information
about our taxes. I informed them about the post I just made about Valentine’s
Day and how guys need to not be fooled by the lure of not buying anything for
the big V-Day. They both insisted that after a while, women do not want that. They
would rather have a gift on a random day when no one is telling them to think
about them. I gotta call BS on that one!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I can just imagine the day when I do NOTHING for Valentine’s
Day. It might just be the last thing that I do as a married man. How do I know?
I have made stutter steps in the past with her. Did something lackluster or unimaginative.
While she SAID everything was all right, I could see it smoldering just under
the surface that it WAS NOT! I have made up my mind that from then on, I was
going to be doing something special on that day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This year, I get the ultimate opportunity. She will be
working in an office again this year. She will also be working on Valentine’s
Day. I will be making sure that she is getting something at the office so that
she will be able to have bragging rights. Even if it means that I am bringing
it there myself, she is getting something that will make the rest of the office
jealous. Guys, it is not about just doing something, mark my words! It is about
doing something SPECIAL. Leave the flowers for a random day. Valentine’s Day is
the day to SHINE!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I am the typical guy, so I do not know what I am going to do
yet, but I know it will be special. She will be talking about this one for a
while. The last time I went over the top when she was working in an office, I
was the reason for three marriages and a baby. Amazing what a little
showmanship can do to spark that kind of reaction! Do not be the guy met with
an angry woman tapping her foot at the door because she saw someone else get
something at work (ME). Be the guy along with me to give their women exactly
what they want to have. Think of it as a get out of jail free car for you
thanks to Valentine’s Day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-19792759375748444742012-01-29T11:28:00.001-08:002012-01-31T16:32:13.654-08:00It’s Valentine’s Day AGAIN!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oTblsXED_YY/TyWfYtdGp4I/AAAAAAAABQ4/598H62myseU/s1600/1-29-2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oTblsXED_YY/TyWfYtdGp4I/AAAAAAAABQ4/598H62myseU/s320/1-29-2011.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Every year, just like clockwork, this day comes around.
Valentine’s Day! The procrastinator’s worst nightmare. Your significant other
needs to feel validated by your love with presents which prove that you are
thinking about them. I have it even twice as hard because my wife has her
birthday five days after Valentines Day. This means I have to make sure to
think up at least two really thoughtful presents to give her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I gotta say, this is a holiday which I have brushed off in
the past as being pesky and rude. Many women will tell you that it is not even
necessary to buy them something. Do NOT fall into this way of thinking guys!
Valentine’s day might be difficult to think up something nice, but it does mean
something to women whether they want you to know it or not.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After all of my years of struggle, I have learned that you
give does not have to be expensive. It does not have to be lavish. It needs to
be something which comes from the heart. If at all possible, it should be
something which will show them that you listen. Valentine’s day is my way of
showing my wife that I am not always forgetful and that I do sometimes listen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here is a tip for those guys out there looking for a great Valentine’s
Day present. Make sure that in the month leading up to it that you simply go
out walking around close to different stores. If she shows an interest in
something, log that in your mind. Take a picture with your phone. Do whatever
you have to do to remember what it is. You can buy it later and give her a real
surprise on the big V-day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ladies, please give your man a break! We try hard to be
thoughtful and sweet, but it does not always work out that way. Whatever we
give you, please just act like you like it in the very least. This way,
Valentine’s Day can be a great day for everyone!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=pandayguinig-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B0051VVOB2&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe>
<iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=pandayguinig-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B005890G8Y&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=pandayguinig-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B0051QVESA&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe>
<iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=pandayguinig-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B005890G8O&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1<1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe>Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-13155896828021510182012-01-27T10:26:00.000-08:002012-01-27T10:26:11.235-08:00Cool New SunglassesI am about to get myself some new sunglasses. I have been enjoying the ability to use my Oakley sunglasses for a while now, but I want to use something which is going to be a bit more on the cutting edge. These new sunglasses that I found from Amazon seemed to be a good fit for me. <br />
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=pandayguinig-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B000OQGTNW&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
I would love to get some opinons from you guys to see what you think about them. I was kind fo shocked at the price when I first saw it, but it is hard to deny the truth when you see the sunglasses right there in your mailbox. I think that I am going to wear these to the upcoming beer festival with my wife.<br />
<br />
These were so cheap and fit so good, I might get an extra pair of sunglasses for myself for the summer trip to Hilton Head. I might even get a pair for my son so that we can have one of those silly photos that you always see from vacations.<br />
<br />
Just wanted to drop a post really quick to let everyone know what I am up to these days. Hope to be posting mroe very soon and I will soon get another section of my Perfect Margarita story on An Alternate Truth. Until then!Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-37392235028006356382012-01-17T21:56:00.000-08:002012-01-17T21:56:10.483-08:00Calling Out in Full Support of the Wikipedia Blackout<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pvJQxM3vGuY/TxZe55WuiOI/AAAAAAAABQw/1wP0n6sa7iE/s1600/freedom.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="93" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pvJQxM3vGuY/TxZe55WuiOI/AAAAAAAABQw/1wP0n6sa7iE/s320/freedom.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Today, Wikipedia is going through a blackout as a protest to
the kinds of legislature that the American congress is trying to pass. This constant
invasion into the realm of the internet is poised on the brink of chaos and
ruin. If congress is able to succeed, the ability to get free knowledge will
cease. The ability to spread the truth about what goes on that the mainstream
media will not report vanishes. By regulating the internet, the United States will
be no better than any other country it looks down its nose at which offer no
rights to their citizens.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If the United States is still the land of the free, it
should not take something like a Wikipedia blackout to wake people up! The
dependence on the internet for free information and entertainment is a freedom
and should be protected. By allowing the government to take control of this,
they are shutting down our ability to express ourselves. They are limiting our ability
to spread truth. We will become the same as all other countries which oppress
their citizens.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is time for everyone to wake up and let their congressmen
know that they will not stand idly by. I support the Wikipedia blackout even
though I use it every day for research material in my work. I will gladly go
without a wealth of knowledge which up until now has been protected by American
values for freedom. If these laws pass, it is an affront to the American
public. It will crush the spirit of America and the spirit of the freedom that
we should all hold dear. Go to the site and see the Wikipedia blackout for yourself.
While you are there, enter your zip code and locate your congressmen so that
you can let them know that you are an American and that you support a free
internet without regulation!<o:p></o:p></span></div>Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-53786535337556860782011-12-02T22:06:00.001-08:002011-12-02T22:15:05.290-08:00Looking Forward to Beer Festivals This Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w27o_LlcT3E/Ttm-Tj57XSI/AAAAAAAABQU/ppDwcURstmY/s1600/Atlanta-Decatur-20110715-00297.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w27o_LlcT3E/Ttm-Tj57XSI/AAAAAAAABQU/ppDwcURstmY/s320/Atlanta-Decatur-20110715-00297.jpg" width="194" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I thoroughly enjoyed myself going to the Winter Beer
Carnival in February, 2011. I am now starting to look into all of the different
festivals that I might be able to enjoy this year. I am looking at the Winter
Beer Festival put on by Atlanta Beer Festivals. It takes place at the
Masquerade and looks to be a great time. I am hoping that I will be able to get
the super cheap $25 tickets by being among the first in line. The first 250
people get the tickets at this discounted rate. Should not be too hard to get
that, but you never know.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">To all of you hopheads out there who scoff at the idea of
beer festivals being a summer thing, my hat is off to you. I feel the crisp air
is the perfect thing for when you have had one too many hops in the belly and
you are starting to heat up. I only wish that there were more festivals which
happened throughout the winter here in Georgia.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A note about the food: I want to see more food of a
better quality in the future. The hand dipped corn dogs were nice at the Winter
Beer Carnival, but all of the rest of the food left something to be desired.
Food got too cold too fast and lacked the hearty flavor I would expect from
winter fare. Up the ante with some jalapeño stuffed sausages or maybe some hot
pretzels with horseradish mustard dipping sauce. Bring the HEAT!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Anyone on staff for the beer festivals during the winter
or throughout the year can feel free to contact me. I would love to get as much
information as possible to report about these wonderful events so that I can
post them here. Naturally, free passes for me and my lovely wife are always
appreciated! I look forward to seeing everyone at the pouring stations!<o:p></o:p></span></div>Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-50830379345353378502011-11-30T14:27:00.001-08:002011-11-30T14:33:39.537-08:00Save Candler Park Golf Course<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><v:shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" id="_x0000_t75" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" stroked="f">
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</v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:formulas>
<v:path gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect" o:extrusionok="f">
<o:lock aspectratio="t" v:ext="edit">
</o:lock></v:path></v:stroke></v:shapetype></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qr1XUpPHsoI/TtauWCDSF2I/AAAAAAAABQM/S2lWkFw-T0s/s1600/candler+park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="82" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qr1XUpPHsoI/TtauWCDSF2I/AAAAAAAABQM/S2lWkFw-T0s/s400/candler+park.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The city of Atlanta has many great traditions which
should be preserved when they are good for the community and discarded when no
longer needed. There is a current problem where the Parks and Recreation
department is looking to eliminate one of the public golf courses in the city.
Candler Park Golf Course is in trouble of being shut down because it is being
dubbed as “not profitable enough”. This is a terrible reason to get rid of
something which helps beginners to get started with golf in a less intimidating
environment as well as a place where golf enthusiasts can get away for a
relaxing 9 holes of golf.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Those who are familiar with the course feel that efforts
can be better served in improving the golf course rather than shutting it down.
This is why the Friends of Candler Park Golf Course has been making an effort
to change the mind of those trying to shut down the golf course. If you are so
inclined, you can learn more by visiting sites.google.com/site/focpgc or by
contacting me directly at </span><a href="mailto:brianbedell@gmail.com"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">brianbedell@gmail.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have recently obtained permission from Edwin Watts Golf
on Piedmont Road to provide merchandise which can be raffled to help promote
the golf course and to try to raise money. The first raffle will be help
shortly and will include the use of recovered balls from the course which will
be stamped with a serial number. The drawing will choose one of these numbers
and the winning number will win the prize.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Additional efforts will be made to have a tournament on
the course and other promotional affairs. Every effort will be made to help in
making sure that the city realizes how beloved Candler Park Golf Course is to
the golfers and to the community. I encourage all golfers and those living in
the community to reach out to those in control of this decision making process
to let them know what you think.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you are interested in writing a letter to those who
can weigh in with more influence, the suggested people include: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mayor Kasim Reed, City of Atlanta<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Senator Jason Carter<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Alex Wan, City of Atlanta Council District 6<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">George Dusenbury, City of Atlanta Parks &
Recreation<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Walt Rey, Park Pride Director of Park Visioning<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Any questions or comments about this issue are welcomed
and I will be sure to post them here for the consideration of all. Thank you
for reading and I hope to see you out at Candler Park Golf Course soon!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-67688603961441827842011-08-13T20:23:00.000-07:002011-08-13T20:31:09.814-07:00Having Fun Playing Golf at Candler Park<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BeO6NXs2QA4/Tkc8dT9bvZI/AAAAAAAABPY/X2HL5bn0zfU/s1600/Atlanta-Decatur-20110808-00302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BeO6NXs2QA4/Tkc8dT9bvZI/AAAAAAAABPY/X2HL5bn0zfU/s1600/Atlanta-Decatur-20110808-00302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BeO6NXs2QA4/Tkc8dT9bvZI/AAAAAAAABPY/X2HL5bn0zfU/s320/Atlanta-Decatur-20110808-00302.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Second Hole</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There are few things more enjoyable than getting up early in the morning to play golf. Most of us are willing to get up earlier than you are for work or other kinds of obligations so that you can get first crack at the fairway and so that you will be able to beat the afternoon heat. This is exactly what I did when I was playing at Candler Park Golf Course the other day.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Candler Park Golf Course is a 9-hole walking course in Atlanta, GA. It is steps from Little 5 Points in the Candler Park neighborhood. The greens fees are very reasonable at $10 for gameplay on the weekdays and $14 for playing on the weekends. The variations in elevation can be a bit of a challenge even though it is still a good course for those still beginning.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-np6cyUDxOoA/Tkc9JUTXaII/AAAAAAAABPk/egdQi9pbukM/s1600/Atlanta-Decatur-20110808-00304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-np6cyUDxOoA/Tkc9JUTXaII/AAAAAAAABPk/egdQi9pbukM/s1600/Atlanta-Decatur-20110808-00304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-np6cyUDxOoA/Tkc9JUTXaII/AAAAAAAABPk/egdQi9pbukM/s320/Atlanta-Decatur-20110808-00304.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seventh Hole</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have taken my son to Candler Park Golf Course on a few different occasions and it is a lot of fun to know that you are right next to a thriving metropolis while still being able to enjoy the nature and the beautiful vistas. The main thing that you will need to make sure of is that you are ready to get in a good hike. This is because you will be climbing all of the hills to get to your next shot.</span><br />
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The most challenging hole looks to be innocent enough. This is the second hole. The reason why the hole is so challenging is because you have to hit the green spot on or short. If you are off on either side or too far, your ball will trickle down a hill and you will be almost as far from the hole as you were when you were on the tee box. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Another challenge is that you will not be able to see the green whenever you are on the tee box on the par three on the ninth hole. You will also not likely be able to see the green on approach on the fifth hole or on the sixth hole. You will likely have to play the course a few times before you will be able to get a hang of the course. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-djdvxyX1naA/Tkc8rDiGfrI/AAAAAAAABPg/_6Cnyq4n5Wo/s1600/IMG-20110808-00303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-djdvxyX1naA/Tkc8rDiGfrI/AAAAAAAABPg/_6Cnyq4n5Wo/s320/IMG-20110808-00303.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fourth Hole</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I enjoy playing Candler Park Golf Course during the week early in the morning when there are not very many people on the course. This is a great way that I will be able to take my time when I need it and I can play fast whenever I am hitting good. Get out soon to play this wonderful course and you will enjoy yourself. Just remember that you might want to bring a walker or you can rent one for $3.50 from the course. This will help to take some of the strain off of you so that you can enjoy playing Candler Park Golf Course.</span>Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-64147390770692684572011-07-26T06:36:00.000-07:002011-07-26T06:36:45.156-07:00Learn Some Manners!I have just created a blog which is the exact kind of thing that every chef everywhere dreams of doing for many different kinds fo diners. It is a blog which is dedicated to providing useful information for all of those people who do not behave correctly whenever you eat out. It is a practical look at what the restaurant sees and what you can do to improve your status as a patron of the restuarant. I hope that everyone will check out my new blog and provide feedback and even suggestions as I would love to make it as versatile as possible.<br />
BrianBrian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-247531009356127432011-05-19T11:32:00.000-07:002011-05-19T12:02:35.827-07:00Tunes from the Tombs - Live it Up at the Oakland Cemetery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4VnfkrZZ5Lo/TdVhNKe2mvI/AAAAAAAABLk/El6uGeojdJs/s1600/5-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4VnfkrZZ5Lo/TdVhNKe2mvI/AAAAAAAABLk/El6uGeojdJs/s320/5-19.jpg" width="206" /></a></div><br />
Living in Atlanta means there are many different kinds of events you can look forward to. There are the ordinary events that you would expect like sports and massive concerts. What you might not expect to hear about is that one of the most historic cemeteries in town will hold a concert. This is exactly what will happen the weekend of 5/21 – 5/22. This May, Historic Oakland cemetery has decided to allow an unprecedented musical event, Tunes from the Tombs to be held among the many graves and tombs which it holds.<br />
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The event is sure to be a lot of fun as it draws many different bands from all across the nation. Even bands as distant as Colorado, Pennsylvania and California will be showing up. The genres of music will range from jazz to rock, classical, folk, Americana and others. The artists will have small stages that they will be able to perform on and those in attendance are encouraged to walk from one band to the next. <br />
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Featured bands at Tunes from the Tombs include SmokeThatCity – an instrumental act featuring Bill Taft and the original members of the Cabbagetown act Smoke. Also included on the bill are such great acts as The Blacktop Rockets, Slim Chance and the Convicts and AM Gold. These are only a few of the local and national acts which will be hitting the stage at Tunes from the Tombs. <br />
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<a href="http://oaklandcemetery.com/docs/TUNES%20FROM%20THE%20TOMBS%20SCHEDULE%20-%20FINAL.doc">Full performer lineup here</a>.<br />
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The entertainment, and the likeness to a New Orleans event, does not end there. You will also be able to enjoy the stylings of different buskers who will show up on their own small stages. Additionally, you can get your fortune read by Robyn Avalon, a well-known Atlanta psychic and fortuneteller. She will start offering her services at 2pm and will be available until dusk. You will also be able to enjoy free mini tours as a part of the price of the ticket that you paid for. <br />
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You will not have to worry about getting hungry at Tunes from the Tombs as there will be great food from nearby restaurants: Six Feet Under, Pallookaville and Hottie Hawg’s Smokin’ BBQ. Along with the food vendors, you will have the chance to purchase “spirits” in the form of beer and wine. Sorry, no ghouls invited!<br />
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Attendance at Tunes from the Tombs is expected to be high. With cheap tickets, there is really no reason why you should not show up. Tunes from the Tombs will run from May 21 to May 22. It will operate from 11am until dusk. It is held on the grounds of the Historic Oakland Cemetery which is found at: 248 Oakland Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30312. The tickets are being sold only at the event. You can get your tickets for $10 if you plan on just going for one day. If you want to go for both days, it is only $15. If you are bringing along your children, those who are 12 and under will only be $5 for one day, $10 for both.<br />
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If the event goes well and there is minimal damage to the space, it is likely that this will be a repeat event. So, please get out and support Atlanta and make sure that you are respectful of the eternal souls who will be rocking alongside you. Also, keep in mind that the proceeds from the event go to help preserve the Historic Oakland Cemetry so that it can remain part of what makes Atlanta so special.Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-52185094067683371962011-05-08T17:08:00.000-07:002012-01-27T17:07:47.152-08:00Seeing the Golden Age of Comics at the Breman Museum in Atlanta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m_ji6CWiQ9Y/TcctOnTmN1I/AAAAAAAABLE/n-f0ONKSP3s/s1600/IMG-20110508-00184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m_ji6CWiQ9Y/TcctOnTmN1I/AAAAAAAABLE/n-f0ONKSP3s/s320/IMG-20110508-00184.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">There is so much to do in the city of Atlanta that it is pretty easy to find something that you want to do. Being Mother’s Day, we decided to do something really special with our day. First, my wife was able to sleep in. It was nice to hear that Garrison Keeler from Prairie Home Companion agreed with us that this is something that every mother really wants. That, and to get away from the family for a little while for some alone time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After we had pancakes and eggs as a family for brunch – no Mother’s Day brunch at a restaurant for our family – we set out to the Breman Museum to see the Golden age of Comics exhibit. I was not sure exactly why the Breman Jewish Heritage & Holocaust Museum would hold such an exhibit. We made sure to read all of the information and I was amazed to learn about how the comic book industry was born. It was basically founded by two Jewish men in the 30’s – Joe Shuster and Jerry Siegel – born out of the pulp books which were popular at the time.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qr6xJwJqFFY/TcctaQHY7yI/AAAAAAAABLI/cIs0wSowXYU/s1600/IMG-20110508-00179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" j8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qr6xJwJqFFY/TcctaQHY7yI/AAAAAAAABLI/cIs0wSowXYU/s200/IMG-20110508-00179.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We learned how the comic book artists of the time were drawing many of the scenes of American soldiers whopping up on Hitler before the United States of America ever entered into the war. Many of the artists were even hired to draft posters which were used as propaganda posters. These were some of the greatest scenes that I have ever seen of Hitler getting his light punched out and more.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r0ipkCrATZY/Tcctpq2iC6I/AAAAAAAABLU/TqbJqt366bk/s1600/IMG-20110508-00186.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r0ipkCrATZY/Tcctpq2iC6I/AAAAAAAABLU/TqbJqt366bk/s200/IMG-20110508-00186.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ariella got to dress up as Wonder Woman and ride the Batmobile. Brenden got to read a lot about many of the greatest artists of all time like Will Eisner and Jack Kirby. We even got to sit down and watch interviews from industry greats including Stan Lee. We even watched some old episodes of Superman which were originally aired in the movie theaters. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qzwa8HP6y8Y/TcctfgrG4cI/AAAAAAAABLM/Qp1RS78w0t8/s1600/IMG-20110508-00181.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" j8="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qzwa8HP6y8Y/TcctfgrG4cI/AAAAAAAABLM/Qp1RS78w0t8/s200/IMG-20110508-00181.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It was an overall interesting exhibit and a must see for anyone interested in comic books in general or just art. It is a shame that it is not better advertised as the only thing I ever saw for it was the poster outside of the Breman Museum which is easily ignored. If you or someone you love enjoys comic books, this is a great exhibit to go to. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vHUONVXn0wo/TccwD5jIumI/AAAAAAAABLc/lTyVWlYiEkY/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" j8="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vHUONVXn0wo/TccwD5jIumI/AAAAAAAABLc/lTyVWlYiEkY/s200/photo.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After we went to the exhibit, we went to Kilwins to get some chocolate and candies. My wife got a delicious candied apple. We also got two caramel apples, two caramel dipped rice crispy treats, a white chocolate dipped rice crispy treat, 1 1/3 pound of fudge and some caramel dipped pretzels. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DNb0z5_wBuI/TccvghJIYoI/AAAAAAAABLY/0o_OajQYDg8/s1600/IMG-20110508-00191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DNb0z5_wBuI/TccvghJIYoI/AAAAAAAABLY/0o_OajQYDg8/s200/IMG-20110508-00191.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Now, we are getting ready for Treme to come on and we will undoubtedly drink some Heineken and New Castle Brown Ale. It is a great Mother’s Day in our home. I hope that all of the mothers out there had a great one and will have many more to come in the future.</span></div>
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=pandayguinig-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B003ZHR6Q6&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-79346757891627815582011-05-06T19:44:00.000-07:002012-01-27T17:01:34.194-08:00Atlanta Coca-Cola Building All Lit Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eBdFwx9zcUg/TcSoK7YTaeI/AAAAAAAABK4/KAKAlwbgclk/s1600/IMG-20110506-00175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eBdFwx9zcUg/TcSoK7YTaeI/AAAAAAAABK4/KAKAlwbgclk/s320/IMG-20110506-00175.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This year marks the 125<sup>th</sup> year anniversary of Coca-Cola. They have decided to throw a huge party in Centennial Olympic park which they will simulcast on their website for all the public to see. Apparently there will be a few friends from American Idol which will show up and there will be plenty of festivities for the Coca-Cola employees. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">To do something to say thank you to the rest of the city of Atlanta, the corporate headquarters in downtown was draped with screen material and different images were used to advertise the celebration to the city of Atlanta. We celebrated by heading out to The Varsity Restaurant right across I-85 from Georgia Tech. We got a good view of the building and we were able to see all of the images as they were cast on the side of the building.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FlnwwbTeWYY/TcSoLJMRZVI/AAAAAAAABK8/LIwKHL9atow/s1600/IMG-20110506-00176.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FlnwwbTeWYY/TcSoLJMRZVI/AAAAAAAABK8/LIwKHL9atow/s320/IMG-20110506-00176.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We expected a big show since we knew that Coca-Cola paid close to $1 million just to project everything on the side of their building at night over the course of the weekend. The official anniversary is not until Sunday, but the festivities are underway. It is great to live in a city with so much heritage and pride.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In my family, we for one celebrate drinking Coca-Cola. My only wish is that we did not have to wait until Passover to get Coca-Cola made with sugar or buy the product made in Mexico. Still, all I want to say is happy 125<sup>th</sup> to Coca-Cola and here is to another 125 years of deliciousness to come. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You can get even more information through the <a href="http://clatl.com/freshloaf/archives/2011/05/06/coca-cola-building-morphs-into-psychedelic-massive-coca-cola-advertisement">Creative Loafing website</a>.</span></div>
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=pandayguinig-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B000GDNTNG&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=pandayguinig-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B000C14WH4&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-720993067702954292011-04-24T19:17:00.000-07:002011-04-24T19:17:07.337-07:00Easter Time in Georgia 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e523ltz7Y9s/TbMUEJiOrkI/AAAAAAAABFE/WlOkGwwwEm8/s1600/IMG-20110416-00070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" i8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e523ltz7Y9s/TbMUEJiOrkI/AAAAAAAABFE/WlOkGwwwEm8/s320/IMG-20110416-00070.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well, Easter has passed yet again and what a glorious time it was for all. At least it was great where I was. We had a great time going to two different kinds of Easter egg hunts with my daughter. My son even got to get in one the action even though he is beyond the normal Easter egg hunting age limit. It reminded me about how special these holidays can be whether you are religious or not.</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The reason for my revelation was because we went to Cleveland, GA last week to go to the Eggstravaganza at the Cabbage Patch Kids Babyland General. We showed up for the pancake breakfast with the Easter bunny and got to enjoy some music and take some pictures. Ariella went wild dancing to a few different songs, but was nice and tame when it came photo time. She sat right down in the Easter Bunny’s lap to take a sweet little picture.</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W4I8tcWkSi8/TbMU20f4KGI/AAAAAAAABG8/8HXZK7tboFs/s1600/IMG-20110416-00110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W4I8tcWkSi8/TbMU20f4KGI/AAAAAAAABG8/8HXZK7tboFs/s320/IMG-20110416-00110.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">From Babyland General, we went over to the town square where they had a parade set up. It was mostly from the churches and the local firefighters, police organizations and even some banks. They tossed out candy and generally waved to their heart’s content. The only mishap during the event was the fact that a dog threw up right in front of one of the children trying to catch candy. The parents spent the rest of the parade directing their child to untainted candy.</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After we had lunch with a friend and her baby boy and daughter, we all headed back over to Babyland General where we participated in the big Easter egg hunt. Thousands of eggs disappeared into baskets in a matter of seconds. I was slightly annoyed by parents picking up eggs for their children as it seemed to defeat the purpose. This is not a competition to get the most after all, it is a chance for the kids to have fun picking up candy for themselves. There was even an overgrown kid collecting eggs to stuff in his shirt. I digress.</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We wondered through Babyland General and entered into a contest to win a valuable Original Cabbage Patch Kid which we won. We also purchased some great Cajun style boiled peanuts and pork skins. We hung out and did some shopping while the kids got to watch a Cabbage Patch Kid being born right from the cabbage patch. There was hardly a mention of the religious aspect of the holiday. Instead, it was simply a great way for families to have fun.</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HmIWagQbg_E/TbMVU3JbfOI/AAAAAAAABIY/UKqwXoj0a8E/s1600/IMG-20110423-00133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HmIWagQbg_E/TbMVU3JbfOI/AAAAAAAABIY/UKqwXoj0a8E/s320/IMG-20110423-00133.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The next week, the day before Easter, we went to another Eggstravaganza at Callanwolde. This is a fine arts center which is just down the street from our home where we always mean to do more stuff at because the place looks cool and always has fun events going on. The egg hunt last year was disorganized and started early. This year, the hunt started right on time and Ariella was able to get out there and pick up some more candy. It was a great time.</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We did not go to church today, but we did have a great Easter brunch complete with baked ham, broccoli casserole and roasted red potatoes in herbs. We got to spend time together as a family. It was a great holiday and we are truly thankful for the gifts that we have received by being blessed on this holiday. Seems like a long time until Halloween now.</span></div>Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-353345046463076872011-03-21T19:47:00.000-07:002011-03-21T19:47:00.548-07:00Bleary Eyed and BushedIf there are any loyal followers of this blog, you might be wondering why the posts are so infrequent. I promise you it is not because of a lack of wanting to post every day. In fact, I long to write long notes to you and any other passers by. The problem is that I do not have as much control over my schedule as I would like to. I have so many clients that I work for that I end up writing so much for everyone else that I hardly have enough time to write what I want to write. When I do write something I feel guilty that I am losing money.<br />
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When you are looking at having to save up for Summer vacations and all of the other things that you want in your life, it can cause you to push yourself pretty hard. That is exactly what I have been doing here as of late. Burning the candle on both ends can lead to a lot of money, which it has, but it also leads to inactivity, weight gain and a serious lack of beer drinking. What a sob story right? <br />
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I stand before you tired and unashamed of it. I say to those who have come back again and again, thank you. I say to all those showing up for the first time, welcome and I hope to see you again really soon. This blog is a labor of love for me, but without much time for labor, I lay forlorn and in desperate need of about an extra ten hours for each day.<br />
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The lack of energy and time is not a harbinger of doom though. There is a light at the end of the tunnel and I will make more time for this blog as well as my other personal writing projects. I will keep you guys posted as to the results. For those of you wondering about what happened with my work out routine, I will tell you that it has gone straight in the trash. I went around the lake about 8 times the other day and even ran a lap. I felt like I was gonna die.<br />
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Until the next time we cross paths... tomorrow, maybe.... I hope you have a great day and that you will be able to enjoy drinking all of the beer that I am missing out one. CHEERS!Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-42557975440125719932011-03-20T18:34:00.000-07:002011-03-20T18:34:33.976-07:00Having Fun at the Winter Beer Carnival in Atlanta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-y8Rckwo0UU4/TYaq2srHNSI/AAAAAAAABD0/neq-Lgjw9hw/s1600/PICT0019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-y8Rckwo0UU4/TYaq2srHNSI/AAAAAAAABD0/neq-Lgjw9hw/s320/PICT0019.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This blog post is about a month late. I swear I have not been drinking beer ever since the carnival. Okay, but not every minute of the day at least. Nonetheless, here it is in all of its glory and splendor for your approval. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">When planning for my wife’s birthday, I came across an advertisement for the Winter Beer Carnival in Atlanta. From what I understand, this was only the second year that the Carnival has been in existence and I gotta tell you, it was GREAT. One of the biggest problems with beer festivals is that you are too close to the rest of the hopheads around you. The first thing that I noticed was that there was plenty of space. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It was a good thing that we got the VIP tickets to the event because we got in an hour early. There was a container of free water bottles which disappeared within the first hour of the event and was never refilled. It was a good thing that I decided to grab a couple of bottles in between beer stands. That one bottle may have saved me from getting over the top drunk with no return to sanity.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">On to the Beer</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I tried so many great beers that day. It is one thing that the Winter Beer Carnival in Atlanta really had going for them. Not only did they have most all of the major beers represented, they even had smaller breweries and a whiskey station available. It was truly a sight to behold. I was very happy to see my old friends from the New Belgium Brewery out there with some great Fat Tire. I was disappointed that they did not have very many of their obscure labels and I would have thought that they would have brought something out just for the carnival, but they did not.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I was also happy to see the local favorite, Sweetwater, show up. I did not have any of their beer until much later in the event as they are local and I can get many of their more obscure labels any time that I want to. They did have a good beer that I tried in the VIP tent though I was pretty drunk at that point and I do not remember the name of it.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My stand out favorite was – this is going to shock you right out of your seat – Guinness. They had their Foreign Extra available and it was truly one of the best stouts I had at the Carnival. I liked it so much that I had to buy myself some beer from the liquor store after the carnival was over. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Another standout that I really liked was the Southampton Double White. It was rich and deep without being fruity like many white beers can be. I did go back for this one a few times. It was a treat to have such a great beer on a great day. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">One more great beer that we tried that day was the Smuttynose Old Brown Dog. It was a good beer which was smooth and slightly bitter. It had a good clean finish which made you want to come back for more. I would have gone back for more, but once I was in the VIP area, I did not want to leave again.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Now for the Bad Stuff</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The main problem with the Carnival was that the beer ran out too fast. This is not just me. Apparently a lot of people complained about this. Most beer festivals have enough to get at least close to the end. This one seemed to have enough beer for about half the crowd that actually showed up. One speculation was that there were too many beers which were given away to the event. One look at Yelp for the event and you will see how many people commented on the fact that they did not pay for their ticket. It made me feel like a chump for paying so much for the VIP tickets.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is a good thing that I did not need to use the bathroom while I was there. There was only normal mass public port-a-potties to be had. Even in the VIP section there was an insane line to behold. I would have also have thought that there would have been some kind of food to purchase or water available in the VIP area. Instead, if you wanted something you had to leave the VIP area to go out with the rest of the crowd. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Overall Rating</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I did thoroughly enjoy myself no matter what. I got to try a lot of great beers and I met some cool people. I will definitely get the VIP tickets again next year so that I will be able to try everything that I want without having to worry about the lines. Maybe next time I will make sure to buy some food straightaway so that I will not have to wait an hour in a line for corn dogs. Thank you Winter Beer Carnival. I will see you next year for your third season.</span></div>Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-70341772085819164492011-03-20T11:24:00.000-07:002011-03-20T11:34:58.058-07:00Sundays and Crawfish Etouffe<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LAnF1PTiLYc/TYZGLy0V3UI/AAAAAAAABDw/OEzxKXKMPrc/s1600/3-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" r6="true" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LAnF1PTiLYc/TYZGLy0V3UI/AAAAAAAABDw/OEzxKXKMPrc/s320/3-19.jpg" width="297" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I may have missed Mardi Gras, but I sure did not miss out on the flavor. One of the greatest things about having worked in some great New Orleans style restaurants over the years is that I have learned the true art of great Cajun cuisine. This is not the overrated stuff which goes BAM. No, this is the stuff which has been made by mothers for their children growing up on the bayou and in the good old Crescent City. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The good news is that you do not have to live in a soup bowl to understand good food. The only thing you have to have is a willingness to try new things and to lose the fear associated with cooking. After all, if uneducated slaves in the south could elevate leftovers into some of the most sumptuous dishes ever to hail from the region, there is no reason why you should not be able to do the same thing. Here I will walk you through making a great crawfish etouffe.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">All about the roux</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The first thing that you will need to know about when making a good crawfish etouffe is how to make the right roux. If you are unfamiliar with this, first let me tell you that it is pronounced like “ROO”. The second thing you need to know is how to make it. This is nothing more than an amalgamation of butter and flour. Take equal parts of each and stir them together in a pot and you have roux. Let me break it down further.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Put your butter in the pot over medium heat. As soon as the butter melts, (you’ve been stirring, right?) add in the flour. This works best with a wooden spoon, but a whisk will work well also. Stir the two together quickly so that you will get a nice smooth blonde color. If you were looking for a blonde roux you would cook it about 1-2 minutes and you would be done.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">What you need for this dish is a dark roux. This means that you are going to cut the heat to a low temperature. The roux is going to bubble as you stir it. If it starts to look clumpy, do not worry as this is normal. Just keep stirring. Eventually the roux will start to turn color and when you have something which looks like a good dark toffee, you have the right color. You will also note the strong, nutty aroma from the roux. This is the stuff dreams are made of kids. Turn off the heat and use your spoon to put all of the roux into a bowl. Keep to the side and start the rest of the dish.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Get to know trinity</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you are into cooking, you are probably just starting to learn about a mirepoix (onions, carrots and celery). In Cajun cooking, you tend to use trinity instead. This is onions, celery and green peppers. The right portion to have is 1 part of celery and green pepper and two parts of onions. Always I add to this mix about a head of garlic and green onions. This will provide a lot of the flavor you will be able to enjoy.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Choosing your crawfish</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You do not have to use crawfish in the shells unless you really want to. Most cooks will simply use the frozen crawfish tails to get the meat that they need to cook up some delicious etouffe. Simply thaw out the crawfish overnight in the fridge when you are ready to make it. If you cannot wait a day, pop the crawfish bag in a bowl of running cold water and the crawfish will be thawed in about a half hour.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Getting started</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">When you are ready to get started, you should start off with butter in a medium pot. If you don’t want to use butter – far be it from me why – use canola oil instead. Add in the onions first. While stirring every once in a while, add in the garlic, celery and then the green peppers. Space out each addition by about 2-3 minutes. Get some good Cajun seasoning and add a dash (1-2 tablespoons) while the vegetables are cooking. When you are just about ready, add in two large bay leaves.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Next you will add in some chicken stock to the recipe. I generally use about one quart of chicken stock to the recipe. Also add in your crawfish at this point. As this is heating up, but before it comes to a simmer, add in the dark roux. How much to add in will depend on how thick you want to make your etouffe. For this recipe, you should use about ¾ cup of dark roux. Make sure to stir your etouffe as you add in the roux. Stir until all the roux has been incorporated. A note here: you can add cold roux to a cold stock or cold roux to hot stock or cold stock to hot roux. NEVER add hot roux to hot stock. You will get a clumpy disaster you will hate.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Finishing it off</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After allowing the etouffe to simmer for about a half hour, it is a good time to add in the green onions to the mix. You should also taste everything at this point to see if you need to make any additions. You may want to add Tabasco at this point of more creole seasoning. It is up to your palate as what you want. At this point you should be able to taste the seasoning, the vegetables and the crawfish. Allow it to simmer about ten minutes more before plating. The mixtures should look a bit thicker than soup, but not thick enough to be gravy.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Plating your creation</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The classic way to serve this dish is with the rice in the center of a shallow bowl. A good way to do this is to take a small espresso cup and fill it with steamed white rice. Make sure to mound the rice over the top so you can pack it in good. Turn the bowl over on top of the cup and invert the whole thing. Press down good on the cup and pull straight up. You should get a nice mound of rice in the center. Add in the etouffe around the rice and you are ready to eat. You may want to throw a few more green onions on top to get the full flavor of New Orleans. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dig in and enjoy! I just made this for a great Sunday lunch and my family was over the moon happy about it. It is amazing how something so simple can make you feel so good. Trust me, when you try this you are going to be ready to put on some creole music and dance the night away. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you really want to send this dish over the top, have a couple of cold Turbo Dogs from the Abita Brewing Company. The flavors go so well together that you might feel as if the might mississip’ is not too far away. Sorry, there will not be any beignets or chicory coffee to follow unless you feel up to the challenge.</span></div>Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-27993497514250030962011-03-06T19:47:00.000-08:002011-03-06T19:47:43.253-08:00Where the Buffalo Roam<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-w8FK6MyZUEs/TXRTteTuJcI/AAAAAAAABB0/hIH57MNk270/s1600/3-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" l6="true" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-w8FK6MyZUEs/TXRTteTuJcI/AAAAAAAABB0/hIH57MNk270/s320/3-5.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tonight for dinner I made up a delicious Buffalo top round roast. My wife and I have been talking about investing in buffalo as an income builder and decided so that we should eat more. We have been enjoying buffalo burgers and buffalo stew. I was scared about how the roast would turn out because buffalo is such a low fat meat. I will worry no more as the roast turned out perfect and there was hardly anything left at the end of the meal.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">To prepare the meat, all I did was rub it with extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), salt, pepper and garlic. I then roasted the roast at 350 degrees in a convection oven for one hour. There was one part of the roast which got a little dry, but the rest was moist and delicious. I served it with some red bliss potatoes with EVOO and herbs, haricot verts in some European butter and salt as well as some port-blue cheese sauce. The combination of flavors was perfect. </span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If this is what eating healthy is all about, then I am ready to eat more of this kind of food. After all, how can you beat a dinner complete with steak, potatoes and blue cheese? I guess the Newcastle beer that I had from my draught keg offset any of the good that I did, but how can you deny that good nutty flavor from one of the best beer imports available. Of course, add that to the Samuel Smith Oatmeal Stout I had last night along with the Guinness Foreign Extra Stout I had last night and I am living good on beer, but bad on calories.</span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-fjMv-javkDg/TXRU151q8pI/AAAAAAAABB4/oxmU3eLFR3s/s1600/3-5-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" l6="true" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-fjMv-javkDg/TXRU151q8pI/AAAAAAAABB4/oxmU3eLFR3s/s320/3-5-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I also made up a delicious French Onion Soup from about ten onions, garlic, beef broth, salt, pepper, EVOO, Glace de Veau and bay leaves. All I am missing is some good crusty bread to make croutons and some sliced gruyere to finish the soup for a delicious dinner. I hope that the cold weather will last so that I will be able to enjoy the soup very soon. What suggestions do you guys have for these kinds of foods? Do you like them? Give me some feedback.</span></div></div>Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-17942643832717164312011-01-27T18:03:00.001-08:002012-01-27T16:57:29.598-08:00The Joys of Grilling with a Chimney<span xmlns=""></span><br />
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Food is such a magical thing! There are certain ways to prepare food which seem to bring all of the flavors to life. Nothing seems to elevate food better than when you use a grill and real charcoal briquettes to cook with. You get all of the great smoky flavor from the briquettes and the delicious caramelized crust on the meat. It is truly a symphony of flavor when it is done right.<br />
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The biggest problem facing most grillers is getting the coals to be just right so that you can get the most out of your grilling experience. Eagerness and improper techniques stand in between those who could possibly have a great meal and those who have a meal which tastes like lighter fluid. There is, however, a very simple tool which can help you to have the best coals which produce the best grilling possible.<br />
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The chimney is a very simple device which has the ability to transform regular charcoal into the glowing hot embers that you want to cook from. The design is very simple, yet very elegant. It is quite simple a metal cylinder with some holes punched in it. It holds all of the coals that you need for a standard grill and has a compartment in the bottom so that you can stuff a few sheets of wadded newspaper as your starter. <br />
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I bought my wife a Weber chimney for an early birthday present and like a kid in a candy store, I could not wait. We went ahead and grilled up some pork chops from a pork loin. Lighting the chimney was extremely simple and the deep orange flames produced were like nothing I have ever seen before. When the top coals had a fine layer of grey on them, we poured the bright red coals into the grill and we were ready to go.<br />
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These coals were hotter than anything I have ever cooked over before. They produced a great hot grill which produced perfect grill marks I have only ever seen while cooking in a restaurant. The flavor from the charcoal was dynamite without any trace of lighter fluid flavor because none was used. We have seen the light of grilling and there is simply no way that we can ever go back.<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=pandayguinig-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B000WEOQV8&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=pandayguinig-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B001AN7RGG&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=pandayguinig-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B0007XY82G&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=pandayguinig-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B00004RALU&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=pandayguinig-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B00004RALR&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-20194315422883235852011-01-27T09:49:00.001-08:002011-01-27T09:50:56.922-08:00Guest Appearance by Will Ferrell on “The Office”<span xmlns=""></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0X7cinesALs/TUGwVDEFDVI/AAAAAAAAA60/qHJjMvwO8cw/s1600/1-27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" s5="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0X7cinesALs/TUGwVDEFDVI/AAAAAAAAA60/qHJjMvwO8cw/s320/1-27.jpg" width="227" /></a></div>Will Ferrell has been a very busy man lately! He has been pioneering "Funny or Die" from a few funny videos made with friends to what it is today. The viral internet following gave way to a loyal television following as well. On top of this, he has enjoyed a very successful movie acting career. So, what is next for this successful actor? A television series? Probably not!<br />
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The rumor mill is at it again churning up ideas such as the one where Will Ferrell will replace Steve Carell on "The Office". The facts as we know it is that Will Ferrell will be guest starring in four episodes later this season. He will be playing the part of a branch manager from the home office. He is also supposed to be just as inept, if not more so, than Steve Carell. <br />
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To me, this does not seem like anything more than a ratings ploy. Will Ferrell is showing up on a sinking ship with the lead actor on the way out. Of course, it will work though! Everyone, including me, will tune in to watch or DVR it. We will all tune in because even bad comedy is good in the hands of Will Ferrell. What this turns into after the four episodes is anyone's guess.<br />
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What do you think will happen? I would love to hear your feedback on this interesting turn of television events!Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8296912374207893725.post-77788571483703886252011-01-26T09:43:00.001-08:002011-01-26T09:47:40.205-08:00Pumping Iron – Losing Weight<span xmlns=""></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0X7cinesALs/TUBeBggAzyI/AAAAAAAAA6k/WVdofVfciCM/s1600/1-26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" s5="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0X7cinesALs/TUBeBggAzyI/AAAAAAAAA6k/WVdofVfciCM/s320/1-26.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I did not get out yesterday to work out after all. I did, however, get out today. I was disappointed in the lack of ability to walk a long distance. I was only able to walk for 15 minutes before it felt like my legs were completely on fire. I was scared of a shin splint which seems ridiculous when all I am doing is walking, but I guess that is what happens when you are so hopelessly out of shape. Anyhow, I walked at 3.5 on the treadmill for 15 minutes and broke a pretty decent sweat. I feel as if I am going to rip apart my leather Converse shoes at any given time as I think they were made more for fashion than they were for active wear. Come on Asics. I am ready for my endorsement deal!<br />
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Anyhow, I did improve my lift on the iron for my upper body. I moved up to the number five on my chest, lats and arms. It was a big jump for my arms which I felt at the end of the workout, but I think I am still ready to make the progression to the next weight plate for each body group. I do not feel as if I will have a problem with my chest burning tonight and tomorrow morning which is a great thing as I do not want to tear anything just as I am getting started with all of this.<br />
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You know, I just looked back and it seems that I was walking at 3.0 for 20 minutes on Monday. No wonder it was so much harder to walk today. I was going an extra .5 faster than I was originally. I did not mean to go up in speed until I hit 30 minutes of continuous walking on the treadmill. I will take it back to 3 next time I work out. I am hoping that I will get back out tomorrow. I drank a big glass of 2% Horizons milk when I was done to get some protein in me. <br />
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I still had about three Yuengling last night while I was relaxing. I will not give up the beer as I still want to enjoy life. Who else out there is swizzling the beer and still losing weight? <br />
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P.S.- When I originally weighed myself, I do not know if I was blind or just wishful thinking, but the scale read 272 not 260. Today the scale was at 270. Dunno if that is significant or not as I still have yet to devise a time in which I should be weighing myself. More to come…Brian Bedellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12548575855074520468noreply@blogger.com1